Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole

Looking to turn a humble cabbage into a star side dish that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds? Look no further than this scrumptious Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping recipe. With tender cabbage, a creamy sauce, and a crispy cheesy topping, this dish is a surefire way to elevate your veggie game.

When faced with a surplus of cabbage from my backyard, I stumbled upon this recipe and it was a game-changer. Initially met with skepticism from my family, it quickly became a household favorite, especially when paired with a hearty roast chicken for Sunday dinner. The secret ingredient? Those irresistible Ritz crackers that add a buttery, sweet crunch to complement the warm and creamy cabbage underneath.

This versatile dish is not only a hit for weeknight dinners but also a potluck superstar. Easily customizable with different soup options and cabbage varieties, it pairs perfectly with a range of proteins from roasted meats to grilled favorites. Whether you prep it ahead or whip it up on the spot, this Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping is bound to become a regular on your menu rotation.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and comforting side dish that appeals even to veggie skeptics
• Easy to customize with different types of cabbage and soup options
• Convenient make-ahead option for busy weeknights
• Versatile pairing with various proteins for a complete meal

Why You’ll Love This Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: This recipe offers a cozy, creamy side dish with tender cabbage, a smooth sauce, and a cheesy, crunchy topping that appeals to even the pickiest eaters.
• Family Favorite: Even those skeptical about cabbage will be asking for seconds – perfect for getting the family to enjoy their veggies.
• Convenient Weeknight Meal: Prep ahead the night before and simply bake when ready, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with different types of soups, cheeses, and cabbage varieties, making it a flexible dish that can be tailored to personal preferences.
• Perfect Pairing: Goes well with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or meatloaf, and can be a hit at potlucks thanks to its portability and ability to be served at room temperature.
• Variety of Ingredients: Offers the option to experiment with different types of cabbage for varying sweetness levels, and the use of different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance, refrigerate, and add the topping just before baking to ensure optimum texture and flavor.
• Creative Twists: Encourages trying different cheese options such as mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère for added excitement and flavor variations.
• Crunchy Topping Tips: Ensure the crackers are broken into chunks, not powdery, and bake on the middle oven rack for even cooking and optimal crunchiness.

Ingredients for Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage
• A little salt, as you like
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 1 can (10 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup or substitute with cream of mushroom
• 1/3 cup mayo
• Some pepper, as you like
• 1 medium Vidalia onion, diced up

Topping

• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), broken up roughly

Pro Tips for Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole

For the perfect cozy baked cabbage topping, opt for the Vidalia onion for its mild sweetness that complements the cabbage well. To add a flavorful twist, try using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. The Ritz crackers are key to the dish’s success, so make sure to break them up roughly for that buttery, crunchy topping that everyone will love.

Prep ahead for a stress-free meal by assembling the dish the night before and chilling it in the fridge. Remember to wait to add the cracker topping until you’re ready to bake to maintain its crunchiness. Experiment with different cheese options like mozzarella or gruyère for unique flavor variations, but if you prefer sharpness, stick with cheddar. Keep the crackers chunky and bake the dish on the middle oven rack for even cooking and a perfect crunch every time.

How to Make Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook cabbage and onion

Chop cabbage into large pieces. Melt butter in a large pan, then cook cabbage and onion for 8-10 minutes until slightly softened, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Season the mixture

Season the cooking cabbage and onion with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Transfer to baking dish

Transfer the cooked mixture into a greased casserole dish.

Step 5: Prepare soup mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the soup and mayo until fully mixed. Spread this mixture evenly over the cabbage in the dish.

Step 6: Prepare topping

Combine melted butter, cracker crumbs, and cheddar cheese in a bowl, stirring until evenly mixed.

Step 7: Add topping

Distribute the cracker, cheese, and butter topping evenly across the casserole.

Step 8: Bake casserole

Place the dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and enjoy

Allow it to rest briefly after removing it from the oven, then serve while still warm.

Storage Tips

Once the Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping is prepared, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Simply cover the dish and keep it chilled until you are ready to bake it. It is recommended to add the cracker topping just before baking to prevent it from becoming soggy.

To ensure the best results when reheating, take the dish out of the refrigerator about half an hour before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. When baking, place the dish on the middle oven rack for even cooking and to achieve a nice crunch on the cracker topping.

For variations on the recipe, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère for unique flavors. If you prefer a sharper taste, stick with cheddar cheese. Additionally, you can try using napa or savoy cabbage for a milder flavor profile, making sure to slice the leaves similarly for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken in this recipe. This swap will give the dish a slightly different taste but will still provide a creamy and flavorful sauce for the cabbage. Alternatively, you can also try making a simple homemade sauce using a butter-and-flour base to achieve a similar creamy texture.

For a softer taste, consider using napa or savoy cabbage instead of green cabbage. These varieties have a milder flavor and will work well in this dish. Just be sure to slice the leaves similarly to ensure even cooking. Additionally, if you’re looking to change up the cheese, try using mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the dish, so feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with this Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping, consider presenting it in individual mini cast-iron skillets. This not only adds a charming touch to the dish but also allows each person to have their own perfectly portioned serving. Top each skillet with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

To elevate the presentation of this comforting cabbage dish, serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls. Simply scoop out the center of small round loaves of bread and fill them with the creamy cabbage mixture. Bake the filled bread bowls until the tops are golden and crispy. This unique serving idea adds a rustic and cozy element to the meal, perfect for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

FAQs for Savory Baked Cabbage Casserole

Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom in this recipe without any issues. Both options will work well with the other ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep this dish the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to add the cracker topping right before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.

What other types of cheese can I use in place of cheddar?

For a fun twist, you can try using mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère cheese instead of cheddar in this recipe. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

How can I ensure that the cracker topping stays crunchy?

To ensure that the cracker topping stays crunchy, make sure to keep the crackers chunky rather than powdery when breaking them up. Additionally, place your dish on the middle oven rack for even baking and to achieve a good crunch.

Conclusion

Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping is a delightful dish that truly transforms humble cabbage into a comforting and flavorful treat. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and a satisfying crunch from the Ritz crackers, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a cabbage enthusiast or looking to sneak in some veggies for your family, this recipe is sure to win hearts and plates.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out different cheeses, cream soups, or cabbage varieties, the Cozy Baked Cabbage Topping is versatile and forgiving. It’s a fantastic side dish that complements a wide range of main courses, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite at your dinner table!